Craft beer enthusiasts in Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Point Loma and Ocean Beach can now select from thousands of brews, and have them delivered to their doorstep with just the click of an icon. Crafthounds, a new and unique on-demand delivery business, has partnered with local alcohol vendors, bottle shops and breweries to create what a company representative described as the largest craft beer marketplace in the craft beer capital of the world.
“There are other delivery services that do beer, wine and liquor, but we really wanted to focus and specialize,” said Adam Gendler, director of marketing services for Crafthounds. “There are so many different nuances to the craft beer culture that we can really customize our platform, and help users explore and discover new beers.”
Gendler said that unlike other delivery services, Crafthounds customers aren’t limited to just their local grocery store. Users can input their address and see all the craft beer available within a five-mile radius. He added that the company currently works with 26 local retailers including Best Damn Beer Shop, Keg N Bottle, Best Quality Liquor Store, Craft City, The Craft Gurus and 32 North Brewing. CraftHounds is also offering its customers growlers on demand from a number of breweries and tasting rooms. The company is currently pursuing a number of options to expand its list of choices. Another advantage Gendler pointed out is that consumers can compare prices to find the best deals available, and purchase from the store of their choice within the network. Founded by a close knit group of family and friends that wanted to start a microbrewery, Crafthounds was begun as a way to promote the idea of discovery. “At our root, we’re really not a delivery service,” Gendler said. “We’re in business to empower people to be adventurous, explore and try new things. There is nothing better than finding a new craft beer that you just love.”
Every beer has a detailed summary, which includes a description, tasting notes and food pairings. The site also provides personalized recommendations based on customer taste preferences. According to Gendler, delivery fees run between $2 and $6. Delivery times vary between an hour or less and can be scheduled. Gendler said that with more than 115 breweries, and 1,300 craft beer stores, San Diego was a fitting place to start their unique business. “We started here because the city is the craft beer capital,” he said. “San Diego was always at the top of our list because of the number of breweries, but the biggest thing for us was always the craft beer culture.”
Restaurant entrepreneur Alex Carballo, owner of Moto Deli and Fresco Pizzeria & Grill, said that having a unique delivery service such as Crafthounds in the craft Mecca of the United States is like having the gaps filled in with convenience and diversity. “Overall, delivery services have been lax and confined to a specific geographic area,” he said. “If a company can target the more festive selections and deliver a premium quality beer, that’s excellent.” Thomas Michalsky of Pacific Beach recalled having to call Uber for a ride to the liquor store when the beer ran out during his wife’s birthday party recently.
“It would have been easier and cheaper had I known about this service before,” he said. “I could have ordered premium beer and not missed out on time with my guests.” Thirsty? Order craft beers through www.crafthounds.com and have them delivered. .